When organizers of the Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) started planning the big event a decade ago, they had one goal in mind. “We wanted to bring Beloit to the world and the world to Beloit,” says executive director Rod Beaudoin.
Mission accomplished.
This 10-day, one-of-a-kind event has put Beloit on the map within the film industry. Every year, BIFF has grown: In 2006, the first BIFF screened 80 films over four days; in 2015 it showcased more than 200 films, representing 40 countries, over 10 days. More than 100 films were screened during the opening weekend alone.
BIFF was founded by Ron Nief, Becky Rogers and Beaudoin. In a series of community meetings to garner support for the festival, Diane and the late Ken Hendricks, owners of ABC Supply, stepped forward to become the title sponsors of the event. Diane remains an active supporter and advisor for BIFF.
“We dreamt this up nearly 11 years ago and made it a reality,” says Beaudoin. “People never thought a film festival could flourish in a city this size. We knew it could. I thought a film festival could take hold here. The business and community leaders are remarkable to have the vision and understanding of what Beloit could offer the community and the world.”
Every year, there is plenty of excitement surrounding BIFF, including a kickoff party; an all-downtown venue lineup; a BIFF Weekend Getaway contest, as well as a new setting for the Silent Film Showcase. Filmmakers come from all over the U.S., Europe, Asia and South America.
“BIFF is highly regarded as one of the places to be within the movie circuit,” says Beaudoin. “The quality of the films has improved as has the selection process. We treat every filmmaker as if he or she is the top feature at BIFF.”
In 2015, BIFF took over downtown Beloit for an opening night block party. The festivities included ice sculpting, fire breathers and a number of activities for kids. Various downtown venues hosted entertainment, such as a live radio broadcast of Casablanca, life-size puppet shows, stand-up comedy and live music from local performers.
At BIFF, audience members have the opportunity to meet and talk with filmmakers about the films that are shown. Farmer John Peterson is owner of Angelic Organics, one of the largest Community Supported Agriculture (CAs) farms in the U.S. He presented his film “The Real Dirt on Farmer John” at this year’s BIFF.
“The motivation behind the film was to share my personal story and memories of what Beloit was in the past,” he says. “Beloit was a hopping town back in the 1950s. I love sharing those memories with people who were here and those who are new to town.”
“I’ve always had a deep respect for the artists who take part in BIFF,” says Beaudoin. “I love people who have a creative vision and are willing to put everything on the line. We’ve had filmmakers go on to do amazing things. It’s an honor to work with the new and seasoned veterans, and see them fall in love with Beloit and the people who support BIFF.”
Event organizers are always adding new elements to the BIFF event. In 2014, a film sing-a-long was added to the lineup with the film “Sound of Music.” This year it was “Grease.” Lyrics appear on the bottom of the screen and costumes are encouraged.
“BIFF will change every year,” says Nief, a current board member. “Each year we learn something new about our audience and what they like. It’s that creativity that will always keep BIFF fresh.”
Beaudoin agrees.
“There is a Capra-esque feeling about Beloit unlike any other city I’ve ever spent time in,” he says. “BIFF is a reflection of this community, the people, the corporations, and the organizations that work together. It’s a pretty cool feeling.”
Visit BIFF’s Website